Google unveils exciting AI and gaming upgrades for Chromebook Plus users. These features aim to streamline productivity and elevate gaming experiences directly on Chromebook Plus laptops.
Built-in Google AI Features
- Help me write: Employs Google AI to enhance writing across various platforms, offering suggestions and tone adjustments with a simple right-click. Users can generate text from scratch or refine existing content effortlessly.
- Generative AI Wallpaper and Video Call Backgrounds: Creates personalized backgrounds for video calls, inspiring creativity and professionalism.
- Magic Editor on Google Photos: Exclusively available on Chromebook Plus, this feature simplifies photo editing in Google Photos, enabling easy object manipulation and lighting adjustments.
Gemini Integration
Gemini, Google’s powerful AI assistant, is now seamlessly integrated into Chromebook Plus. Users can access Gemini directly from their home screen, facilitating tasks such as planning and writing.
Additionally, new Chromebook Plus users receive complimentary access to Google One AI Premium plan for 12 months, featuring Gemini Advanced and 2TB storage.
New Features for All Chromebooks
Google introduces several enhancements across all Chromebooks:
- Simple Setup with Android Phone: Seamlessly set up your new Chromebook using your phone, eliminating the need for manual entry of credentials.
- One-Click Access to Google Tasks: Google Tasks integration allows easy task management across Google Workspace apps and devices.
- Seamless GIF Screen Recording: Capture and save screen recordings in GIF format effortlessly.
Game Dashboard for Chromebooks
Google introduces Game Dashboard for Chromebooks, enhancing gaming experiences with control customization and easy sharing options.
It supports various games, from Android titles to AAA games, offering features like:
- Game Controls: Play thousands of touch-centric Android games using keyboard mappings.
- Game Capture: Record and share gameplay without leaving the action.
Works With Chromebook Certified Accessories
Chromebook gaming experience can be further enhanced with certified accessories like SteelSeries Aerox 3 mouse, featuring RGB lighting and DPI sensitivity settings configuration.
Future Updates Teased by Google
Google provides a glimpse into upcoming features, including:
- Help Me Read with Gemini: Summarize and get AI-generated answers for deeper understanding.
- Seamless Continuation Across Devices: Easily resume tasks across devices and operating systems.
- Focus Mode: Concentrate better with automatic Do Not Disturb mode and task countdown.
- AI-Powered Hands-Free Control: ChromeOS integrates face and gesture tracking for hands-free operation, aiming to improve accessibility.
Acer today introduced two new Chromebook models: the Acer Chromebook Plus Spin 714 and Acer Chromebook Plus 516 GE, designed for productivity and gaming respectively.
Acer Chromebook Plus Spin 714
The Acer Chromebook Plus Spin 714 is a slim and versatile convertible, perfect for staying productive on the move. It comes with up to Intel Core Ultra 7 processors, enabling smooth performance for tasks like using Google AI and Adobe apps.
With features like Gemini in Google Docs and Adobe Photoshop, users can enhance productivity. The Chromebook’s 2-in-1 design allows it to be used as a laptop or tablet, and its 14-inch touchscreen display offers vibrant visuals.
Additionally, it boasts a 1440p QHD webcam, AI-powered audio and video enhancements, and Wi-Fi 6E connectivity. For businesses and schools, there are management capabilities through Chrome Enterprise Upgrade and Chrome Education Upgrade.
Quick specifications: Acer Chromebook Plus Spin 714
Acer Chromebook Plus 516 GE
On the other hand, the Acer Chromebook Plus 516 GE is tailored for gaming, featuring NVIDIA GeForce NOW cloud gaming service and 13th Gen Intel Core i7 processors.
With a WQXGA IPS display and a 120 Hz refresh rate, gamers can enjoy high-quality graphics and smooth visuals. It also offers DTS audio, 2.5G Gigabit Ethernet LAN port, Wi-Fi 6E connectivity, and a gaming keyboard with anti-ghosting technology.
The Chromebook Plus 516 GE supports up to 2 TB PCIe NVMe SSD storage and up to 16 GB of memory, ensuring ample space and speed for gaming needs.
Quick specifications: Acer Chromebook Plus 516 GE
Availability
Existing Chromebook users will receive these updates through automatic updates over the next week.
- The Acer Chromebook Plus Spin 714 starts at USD 749.99 (Rs. 62,531 approx.) in North America and EUR 979 in EMEA,
- while the Acer Chromebook Plus 516 GE starts at USD 699.99 (Rs. 58,362 approx.) in North America. Both models will be available from this month.
Commenting on the announcement, John Maletis, Vice President of ChromeOS Product, Engineering, and UX, said:
All Chromebooks will come equipped with fresh tools and Google integrations aimed at simplifying tasks. With our diverse lineup of devices, which includes some newcomers this spring, you’ll discover the perfect Chromebook to suit your needs.